Deion Sanders buyout would cost Colorado up to $25.5 million if fired in 2026
According to a Sports Illustrated report cited by Yahoo Sports/Heavy, Colorado would owe Deion Sanders $25.5 million if he were fired before the end of 2026, dropping to $17.25 million if termination occurred in 2027. Sanders signed a five-year, $54 million contract extension in March 2025 that runs through the 2029 season, with annual salaries ranging from $10 million to $12 million. The buyout obligation runs in reverse as well: Sanders would owe Colorado $10 million if he departed for another FBS or NFL coaching job before December 31, 2026, with that figure decreasing in subsequent years. The report comes after Colorado's loss at Arizona State on November 7, 2026, with questions mounting about the program's direction following the departures of Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter to the NFL.
If Sanders is terminated before the end of 2026, SI says the cost is $25.5 million.
Why it matters
For brands: Brands and sponsors connected to Colorado football should be aware that the program's trajectory and potential coaching changes could affect visibility and fan engagement.
For coaches: Sanders' contract details show the significant financial leverage he holds relative to Colorado, making a potential separation costly for the university regardless of how it is initiated.
For athletes: Colorado players face continued uncertainty about the program's stability and leadership as the team's performance draws public scrutiny.
Read the full story at Yahoo Sports college football
Sources
- Yahoo Sports college football: Deion Sanders Buyout Details in Contract Show Cost for Colorado to Fire Coach
- Yahoo Sports college football: Deion Sanders’ $25.5 million buyout could complicate Colorado’s decision on his future